Employers are not required to replicate previous training of a new operator based on forklift rules. Training nonetheless needs to be supplemented so as to address specific workplace risks and particular workplace machines. For instance, an operator doesn't have to be trained to navigate a lift truck on a ramp if that place of work does not contain a ramp; nonetheless, if the operator is really assigned to work somewhere which has a ramp, it is necessary that extra training must be provided.
Trainees can use a motorized industrial truck just when they are under the direct supervision of individuals who have the skill, knowledge and training to train operators and assess their skill using the machinery. The trainees could only learn in a setting where such operation does not endanger other workers or the trainee themselves.
Making a practical evaluation in the workplace is also necessary. If a third party training provider is chosen, it is better to have the training occur at the jobsite, utilizing lift trucks at the workplace to be as precise as possible.
An operator is said to be certified once they have successfully passed the training with records maintained by the employer. The certification should contain the date of training, the operator name, and the name of the individual performing the evaluation and training and lastly the date of assessment. Though certain state OSHA bodies need the issue of an operator's certificate, the Federal OSHA does not need it.
Every three years, refresher training is necessary. It could also become mandatory to those operators who have demonstrated some type of deficiency in safe lift truck operation. For example, refresher training would be triggered by certain instances like: if a different kind of forklift is introduced to the workplace, if there is an accident or a near miss, if an operator received a poor 3 year evaluation and if a supervisor observes operating unsafely.
When unsafe operation of a lift truck is noticed, it should be noticed that refresher training is not always the solution. Like for example, if an operator is disobeying workplace safety regulations deliberately, it could be essential to implement disciplinary action. And last but not least, even though training lift truck operators is a requirement, it is necessary to practice forklift awareness training for other employees working near forklifts and pedestrians in order to make sure that everyone will be safe.